A RESTAURANT and bar has called for more city centre patrols after it reported a fifth burglary in just three weeks.

Church Street Tavern, in Colchester, is one of several businesses in the area suffering at the hands of thieves.

In the early hours of Sunday, a crook smashed glass to access the restaurant, before making off with alcohol.

The break-in was captured on CCTV, which was handed over to the police.

In a post, the business said: "Again…fifth time since August 6.

"Same person, same things stolen. Ignored six locks and bolts, just smashed double glazing.

"And we’re not the only ones being targeted in Colchester. More patrols needed."

The restaurant reported Essex Police had made an arrest since the break-in. A spokesman for the force was unable to comment.

The business suffered a similar break-in on August 8, with thieves snatching hundreds of pounds worth of alcohol.

In CCTV footage, published by the bar on social media, at least two people are seen searching the venue before appearing to fill bags with items.

In recent weeks the Siege House bar and brasserie, in East Street, is also believed to have been targeted.

Martin Goss, Colchester councillor responsible for neighbourhood services, joined police officers on Friday for a night of action, including licensing checks and enforcement.

He said: “I’m confident the police will apprehend those responsible who are, in true terms, nothing more than sad low life scum bags preying on hard working businesses to feed their criminal lifestyle.

"Working together provides the evidence needed to apprehend these idiots and their them in jail where they belong.”

Mark Goacher, Colchester councillor for the Castle ward, previously said: "I would hope and like to think that the crooks who did this will realise the impact this will have on a business still recovering from the coronavirus pandemic.

"But, unfortunately, given the sort of people they likely are, I doubt they will care, so it is case of the rest of us doing all we can to support and help catch them."

Anyone with information can call Essex Police on 101.